Avoiding Date Rape

The best defense is offense, and date rape is no exception. Be proactive and learn how to avoid places and situations that could lead to a traumatic and dangerous experience.

*Don't let your date talk you into going to a secluded area until there is complete trust between the two of you.

Double Date

*Double date, or make sure you frequent places where there are other people. Being alone early on in the relationship is borrowing trouble. If you feel uncomfortable spending time in your date's chosen venue, speak up.

*Don't drink or do drugs. Staying sober means you stay in control of the situation.

*Be clear in your own mind about the boundaries you wish to set. If you're not yet sure you're ready for intimacy, don't be afraid to say so, and ask for respectful patience. Don't fall prey to peer-pressure or persuasion.

*Going out with a group of trusted friends is fun and a good way to ensure everybody's safety.

Don't Hesitate

*If you become frightened or feel threatened, don't hesitate to call for help.

*Take a self-defense course, such as IMPACT. The statistics don't lie; self-defense techniques can save your life. Knowing how to defend yourself can also give a tremendous boost to your self-confidence.

If, in spite of your best efforts, date rape does happen to you, there are measures you will need to take to get the help you need:

Trained Staff

*If you're hurt, you need to get to an emergency room right away. Almost every hospital now has staff trained in caring for rape victims.

*Pick up the phone and call someone you trust, a family member or a friend, and relate what has happened to you.

*If you think you may want to report the rape, don't wash or change your clothes. These are important steps you must take to protect the physical evidence in case you decide to press charges. Call the police if you are ready to report the rape. You may want to call a friend or family member beforehand to have by your side.

Jot Down

*Write down all you remember about what has happened.

*If you feel unsure how to proceed, call a rape crisis center. You can find the number in your phone book or call information.

Whichever way you proceed, ask questions and get as much information as you need. Don't be afraid to speak up on any and all issues such as, whether or not you should report the rape, whom to tell about the event, and what reactions you can expect from others.

Personal Aggression

Rape damages the emotions as much as the body or more. It can be very difficult to discuss such a personal aggression, but talking with someone trained to help you is a part of the road to your recovery. A mental health professional or trained rape crisis counselor is crucial in providing you just the kind of listening, caring, and support you need to heal. Getting help after the event is the best way to prevent emotional problems and relationship issues from surfacing in the distant future.